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If you own a window or portable air conditioner and envy those fancy smart thermostats that only work with whole-home HVAC systems, then the Ambi Climate 2 is just the thing you need. The Ambi Climate 2 connects to your home network and acts as a relay that sends IR signals to your current AC unit, giving it the Siri boost that you always wanted. Nevertheless, there isn’t just one way to control smart home devices through Apple devices and Siri. When you lock your device, some accessories can’t be controlled using Siri.

In short, if you like Apple, you're going to love this smart speaker. If you're already living with an iPhone, Apple TV or original HomePod, the Mini makes sense as your next small smart speaker. To be helpful, voice control in the smart home just has to be easier and less obtrusive than pulling out a phone and opening an app, and more convenient than walking over to flip a switch.
Insteon Hub Pro
All in all, it is a great idea to connect your smart home devices to Siri and your Apple devices to ensure you can control them wherever you are. For most smart home products, it is usually initially necessary to configure the device before adding it to the Apple Home app. Whether you use your Apple devices or the HomePod, Siri will interact with the other devices and can be used to control multiple smart home accessories.
You'll also find a selection of useful commands for some of the most popular products on the market. When it comes to Siri, she can already connect smart devices like lights and plugs, adjust the thermostat, control device volume, and check if any doors are open and even close them. Siri-compatible devices will display an Apple HomeKit logo. And Alexa or Google Assistant logos will typically appear on the packaging of smart devices that are compatible with those voice assistants. The redesigned Home app makes it easier to control all your smart home accessories — on all your Apple devices.
How to Use Siri With Your Smart Home Devices
All of these commands are examples of HomeKit Scenes. Think of a Scene as a special phrase that lets you configure multiple smart devices at once. Watch out, though, as there is one gotcha to look out for with this command. Siri won’t let you target two different smart device types at once.
I'm often messaged by new-home buyers who are super excited to add smart features to their homes, but they don't know where to start or lack the funds to buy everything they want. I advise them that building a smart home doesn't have to break the bank. Homeowners can get started for around $200, which could get you a smart speaker with a voice assistant and a switch, lightbulb, thermostat or smart lock. Are you having trouble knowing what you can say or ask Siri to do? Getting the most out of your iPhone and other Apple devices requires learning Siri commands. But it’s tough to know just what all is available to you.
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It fits inside the frame of most wall outlets and has a physical button and LED indicator light. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock includes a retrofit August lock and a DoorSense open-close sensor. Wi-Fi is built into this model, so you won't need to purchase an August Connect module to enable remote access. But if you're an Apple loyalist or you already have an Apple TV HD and like Apple's interface, then the new Apple TV 4K might be a great option for you. Sign up for Verge Deals to get deals on products we've tested sent to your inbox daily.
For example, if it’s a Smart Light, you can specify whether you want it on or off, the brightness, and the color. Then, when you use the scene’s name with Siri, all devices you added to your scene will be set up the way you want. When I'm in the market for new smart home devices, I always look for the "Works with Apple HomeKit" label on the product packaging.
I routinely had problems like light switches dropping off the network. I ended up spending more money to upgrade the router, and when my wife and I moved, I decided to add a hub and bridge for certain devices such as switches, lightbulbs and sensors. For starters, Lutron's been in the business of dimmer switches for decades, and it's a smart home stalwart, too. Its switches have a good set of features and work with everything, they support three-way setups and they look appropriately distinctive without being gaudy. Along with a wide variety of light switches, the Caseta platform also offers specialty switches for things like ceiling fans and Sonos speakers, as well as luxurious Serena smart shades.

Another lighting option is this HomeKit-compatible kit from Lutron, which comes with two smart plugs that you can plug lamps into, and two remotes. Hook everything up and you'll be able to tell Siri to dim the lights. For lighting control, the Hue Tap is a great little device that powers itself each time you press a button -- no recharging or battery replacements necessary. Pair it with HomeKit, and you can use it to trigger your smart-home scenes, too. Siri knows which HomeKit accessories are set up in the Home app as well as their status.
While there are a few HomeKit options for blinds and shades, most require installation and are incredibly expensive. There is a more accessible — and more affordable, alternative though, the SwitchBot Curtain. Simply slide this electric motor onto your curtain rod and pair it to the SwitchBot Hub Mini, and you will be on your way to the ultimate in convenience in no time. The RoomMe Personal Location Sensor works with your family's phones to determine who enters and leaves certain areas. Presence detection also enables personal automation, such as turning on a favorite playlist or setting the lights, to spring to life automatically. The dream of having a Siri brew up a batch of coffee is finally here with the Smarter Coffee maker.

The Home app is already compatible with, and helps control, a wide variety of smart home accessories — with more on the way every day. And setting up a smart home accessory is simple and secure. Just scan the accessory to pair it with the Home app. It doesn’t make sense to invest in smart lights, for example, if you cannot control them using your voice assistant.